Insurgency benefits Kashmir wildlife

Many species of Kashmiri animals have greatly benefited from the paramilitary activity that has been taking place in the region since the late 1980’s, with populations rising 20-60 per cent.

There are two reasons for this increase in population. Firstly, local residents were required to turn in their arms when conflict broke out, leaving potential poachers weaponless and thus unable to illegally hunt. Secondly, very few people now venture into the forest for fear of encountering conflicting insurgents. As a result of this, local wildlife populations have been relatively isolated from human interference.

Snow leopard and leopard populations have increased in this region, in addition to bears, two species of deer and many birds.

For more information, see the BBC article at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/6169969.stm.

 

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